Tee Off in Parys: Celebrating 150 Years on the Fairways

Parys has long been recognised as one of South Africa’s favourite small-town golfing destinations. Surrounded by the Vaal River and the remarkable landscapes of the UNESCO-listed Vredefort Dome, the town offers golfers more than just a round of golf. It combines beautiful courses, welcoming hospitality, excellent accommodation and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages visitors to stay a little longer.
As Parys celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2026, one of the year’s highlight events will bring together golfers from across the country for a memorable weekend that celebrates both the town’s heritage and its golfing tradition.
Taking place on 25 and 26 September 2026, the Parys 150 Heritage Golf Tournament offers players the opportunity to enjoy two of the area’s best-known golf courses while experiencing everything that makes Parys such a popular destination throughout the year.

A Celebration of Heritage and Hospitality
The Parys 150 Heritage Golf Tournament forms part of the official Parys 150 celebrations, commemorating 150 years since the town was established in 1876. Throughout the year, visitors are invited to discover the history, culture and attractions that have shaped Parys into one of the Free State’s leading tourism destinations.

Inspired by the French origins of the town’s name, the tournament embraces a Golf Weekend à la Française theme. The weekend combines golf with good food, hospitality and the welcoming atmosphere that visitors have come to associate with Parys.
While the tournament provides friendly competition on the fairways, it also creates an opportunity for players and visitors to experience the town beyond the golf course.

Two Courses, Two Unique Experiences
One of the highlights of the tournament is the opportunity to play two very different golf courses over the course of one weekend.

Day One: Vaal de Grace Golf Estate
The opening round takes place on Friday, 25 September 2026, with a 10:00 shotgun start at Vaal de Grace Golf Estate.
Situated alongside the Vaal River, the course is known for its peaceful setting, wide fairways and beautiful views across the surrounding landscape. Spring is one of the most enjoyable times to play, with comfortable temperatures and the countryside beginning to come alive after winter.
The first day concludes with a halfway lunch and light dinner, giving players time to relax and enjoy the company of fellow golfers.

Day Two: Parys Golf & Country Estate
The tournament continues on Saturday, 26 September 2026, at Parys Golf & Country Estate, with play beginning at 09:00.
As one of the town’s longstanding sporting venues, the course has welcomed generations of golfers over the years. Mature trees, well-established fairways and a relaxed atmosphere make it an enjoyable course for both regular players and visitors.
The weekend concludes with the official prize-giving function and entertainment, providing an opportunity to celebrate the tournament and the friendships formed throughout the two days.

Golf for Every Skill Level
The tournament will be played in a Four Ball Alliance format, with two scores to count, creating an enjoyable balance between friendly competition and teamwork.
Whether entering with friends, colleagues or fellow club members, the format allows golfers of different abilities to compete together while enjoying the experience.

The entry fee is R3 200 per four-ball, per day, and includes:
• Golf carts
• Halfway lunch
• Light dinner
• Prize-giving function
Visitors and partners are also welcome to attend the evening functions, making the event enjoyable for both golfers and accompanying guests.

More Than a Weekend of Golf
One of the advantages of participating in the Parys 150 Heritage Golf Tournament is having the opportunity to experience everything else the town has to offer.

Between rounds, visitors can enjoy breakfast at one of the local cafés, browse the boutiques and antique stores along Breë Street or explore the art galleries that have become part of Parys’ character. The Vaal River provides a peaceful setting for an afternoon stroll, while the surrounding Vredefort Dome offers spectacular scenery and outdoor activities for those extending their stay.

The town also offers a wide variety of accommodation, from luxury country estates and riverside lodges to historic guesthouses and self-catering retreats, making it easy to turn the tournament into a relaxing spring weekend away.

An Invitation to Celebrate Parys
The Parys 150 Heritage Golf Tournament is more than a sporting event. It is an opportunity to celebrate the town’s rich history while enjoying two days of golf in one of South Africa’s most scenic regions.

Whether you are playing in the tournament, supporting friends or joining the evening celebrations, the weekend reflects what Parys has always been known for: welcoming hospitality, beautiful surroundings and a strong sense of community.
As Parys marks 150 years of history, visitors are invited to become part of the celebration both on and off the golf course.
This September, enjoy a weekend where golf, heritage and the spirit of Parys come together in a setting unlike any other.